Starlink satellites are falling to Earth at an accelerated pace due to intense solar activity, according to new research from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.
The study, titled “Tracking reentries of Starlink satellites during the rising phase of Solar Cycle 25,” reveals how powerful solar eruptions and geomagnetic storms are shortening the lifespan of these satellites, which are part of Elon Musk’s SpaceX global internet project.
“Our results indisputably show that satellites reenter faster with higher geomagnetic activity,” the NASA researchers concluded.
How Does the Starlink System Work?
Starlink Company and Elon Musk’s SpaceX
Starlink, a division of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, is designed to provide high-speed internet via a constellation of satellites orbiting Earth. Since its launch, Starlink has grown to over 7,000 satellites, with ambitious plans to expand to 30,000.
These satellites enable broadband service in remote and underserved areas, using partnerships such as with Space Norway to deliver Low Earth Orbit (LEO) connectivity in Europe.
